Third phase of Umrah pilgrimage begins today

(Karachi) The third phase of Umrah pilgrimage for Muslims belonging to foreign countries is starting from today (Sunday), Radio Pakistan has reported.

As per details, the Saudi Arabia government announced fresh measures for the Umrah pilgrimage, which was suspended for six months due to the Coronavirus outbreak.

The barricade placed around the Kaaba and the holy Black Stone will remain in its place and visitors will be prevented from touching them.

Masjid al-Haram will be disinfected 10 times a day, while quarantine rooms have already been established for visitors having symptoms of COVID-19.

Earlier, in wake of Saudi government's announcement to start Umrah pilgrimage for international pilgrims, Pakistan announced it will accept applications for Umrah from the nationals from November 1 under the new regulations.

Pakistanis will be able to submit their application for Umrah pilgrimage under the new regulations.

A few days ago, Saudi Arabia announced resuming Umrah pilgrimage for international pilgrims from November 1 after suspension of months amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Announcing the protocols for the resumption of International Umrah, Kingdom's Hajj Ministry said that a negative PCR test no earlier than 72-hours before departure time in origin will be needed from the pilgrims while a quarantine period of three days must be completed in the hotel.

“Each group must be accompanied by a registered guide as no individual will be allowed to perform the Umrah,” it said while directing the pilgrims to arrive in the Kingdom with a registered group.

Earlier, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reopened the Muslim holy places for Umrah pilgrimage.

The Saudi government took the decision after implementing extensive health precautions and COVID-19 guidelines.